If you are considering purchasing a swim spa, there are a few important factors to keep in mind before making your final decision. Here are some key things to know before buying a swim spa:
By considering these factors, you can find the perfect swim spa to meet your needs and enjoy the benefits of aquatic exercise and relaxation all year long.
What You Need to Know Before Buying a Swim Spa
Swim spas are becoming increasingly popular in many homes, and with good reason. These innovative pieces of equipment are essentially a combination of a swimming pool and hot tub, with the added benefits of a current-powered jet stream that allows you to swim against the tide without actually moving. Before you invest in a swim spa, it’s a good idea to consider the following factors:
Anatomy of a Swim Spa
A swim spa is typically constructed with a fiberglass shell and a variety of materials that help keep it insulated, durable, and easy to maintain. The base of the spa houses the pumps, heaters, and electric control systems that keep the water warm and circulating. Above the base, the spa is divided into two sections: the hot tub area, and the swim area. The hot tub usually seats 3-4 people and is heated to approximately 100 degrees, while the swimming area is kept at around 82 degrees. The swim area features a current-powered jet stream that allows you to swim indefinitely without moving from one end of the pool to the other.
Benefits of a Swim Spa
Swim Spas offer a wide variety of benefits, including:
Exercise: A swim spa is an excellent way to get in a good workout without having to go to the gym or buy expensive equipment. Swimming is a low-impact exercise that works all the major muscle groups, while the jet stream provides resistance and makes for a more challenging workout.
Relaxation: After a long day or week, there’s nothing quite like slipping into a hot tub and letting the jets soothe your muscles, and swim spas offer that same relaxation alongside their ability to provide a space to swim and workout.
Year-Round Use: The beauty of a swim spa is that it can be used throughout the year, regardless of the season. Even during the cold winter months, you can still enjoy the comfort of the heated water, and the swim area can be used for low-impact workouts like water aerobics.
Installation Requirements
Before you purchase a swim spa, it’s important to consider the installation requirements, which may include:
Electrical: Swim spas require a dedicated electrical line to operate, which can range from 220 to 240 volts, depending on the unit you choose.
Foundation: You’ll need to install the swim spa on a level, stable surface, such as a concrete slab or reinforced deck.
Access: Because swim spas are larger than traditional hot tubs, you’ll need to ensure that there is adequate access to the installation area, including room to maneuver the spa into place.
Size and Shape Considerations
Swim spas come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. Consider the following factors:
Size: Consider the number of people who will be using the spa, as well as the space you have available for installation. Most swim spas range from 12-19 feet in length and 6-8 feet in width.
Shape: Swim spas come in a variety of shapes, including rectangular, circular, and even freeform designs, so consider which shape will best suit your backyard and landscaping.
Jets: Different swim spas have different numbers and types of jets to create the current-powered stream, so consider which type of jet system you prefer.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Like any swimming pool or hot tub, swim spas require regular maintenance and upkeep to keep the water clean, clear, and safe for use. This includes:
Chemical Balance: Swim spas require regular testing and balancing of the water’s chemical levels, including pH, chlorine, and alkalinity.
Filter Cleaning: The filters in the swim spa will need to be cleaned and replaced regularly to ensure proper cleaning and circulation of the water.
Cover Maintenance: The cover of your swim spa should be cleaned regularly, and any damages should be repaired.
Budget and Pricing Factors
Swim spas can range in price from $10,000 to $30,000 or more, depending on the size, shape, and features you choose. In addition to the purchase price, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of installation, electrical wiring, and ongoing maintenance and upkeep costs. Consider your budget carefully when choosing a swim spa, and don’t forget to factor in ongoing expenses when making your decision.
In conclusion, a swim spa can be an excellent addition to any home, providing a combination of exercise, relaxation, and year-round use. With careful consideration of the anatomy of a swim spa, the benefits, installation requirements, size and shape considerations, maintenance and upkeep, and budget and pricing factors, you can choose the perfect swim spa for your needs and enjoy all the benefits it has to offer.
